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Mireya Luis Hernandez unveils biography at Volleyball House

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, August 13, 2016 – Three time Olympic champion Mireya Luis Hernandez launched her biography at the FIVB's Volleyball House on Saturday.

Accompanied by FIVB President Dr. Ary S. Graça F°, Cuba’s former Minister of Sports Humberto Rodriquez and author and Granma deputy director Oscar Sanchez, Mireya was brought to tears as she recalled the humble ascent as her parents emigrated from Haiti to Cuba, the passion for volleyball that put her in the national team at only 15 years old and all the joys that the sport gave her on her way to become one of the best ever to have played the game.

"Today is a very special day, because this book speaks about my life, my humble upbringing. Today I am in Rio and it feels unreal. I have gone through many experiences," she said.

"Today, I am fulfilling the dream of being in Rio and launch my biography among members of the volleyball family who loves me as I love them.

"I inviter people to purchase this book that brings message of being human. Message of family. Messages for all those who inspire to grow and be better in life.

"I hope to help and inspire new generations."

Two time Olympic beach volleyball silver medallist and two time world champion Shelda also attended the launch.

"For me as I was always quite small I was inspired to watch such a talented athlete like her play and giving lessons in volleyball.

"She was an idol, an icon. She was an inspiration. It was amazing to follow the career of this great athlete."

The outside hitter was one of Cuba's main attacking weapons and led the Cuban generation who dominated the women's world of volleyball in the 1990s, claiming three Olympic titles (1992, 1996, 2000), two World Championship titles (1994 and 1998) and a World Championship silver medal (1986). She also has four World Cup (1989, 1991, 1995, 1999), one Grand Champions Cup (1993) and two World Grand Prix titles (1993, 2000) to her name.